When your home has no heat in the middle of winter, it’s more than uncomfortable. It’s urgent. Lubbock winters may not be brutal every day, but when temperatures drop, a heating system failure can turn serious fast.
If your furnace or heat pump isn’t producing heat, there are a few common causes we see again and again in Lubbock homes. Some are simple. Others need professional HVAC repair right away.
Here’s how to tell what might be wrong, and when it’s time to call for help.
- Thermostat Issues or Incorrect Settings
Before assuming the worst, check the thermostat. It sounds obvious, but it’s one of the most common causes of “no heat” calls.
Look for:
- Thermostat set to “cool” instead of “heat”
- Batteries that are dead or low
- Temperature set too low
- A programmable schedule overriding your setting
If your thermostat is unresponsive or shows an error, the issue may be electrical or wiring-related. In that case, forcing it can make things worse.
- Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, which can cause your furnace or heat pump to shut down as a safety precaution.
Signs this may be the issue:
- Weak airflow from vents
- System turning on and off frequently
- Heat running but rooms staying cold
In many Lubbock homes, filters should be changed every one to three months during heating season. Ignoring this can lead to overheating and system damage.
- Furnace Ignition or Pilot Light Problems
Gas furnaces rely on an ignition system or pilot light to generate heat. If that ignition fails, the furnace will run without producing warm air, or not start at all.
Common causes include:
- Dirty burners
- Faulty igniters
- Gas supply interruptions
If you smell gas or suspect an ignition issue, turn the system off and call a professional immediately. Safety comes first.
- Heat Pump Not Heating Properly
Heat pumps work differently than furnaces, and winter performance issues can confuse homeowners.
Common heat pump problems include:
- Frozen outdoor coils
- Defrost cycle malfunctions
- Backup heat not engaging
In colder Lubbock weather, a heat pump may run longer than expected. That’s normal. What’s not normal is blowing cold air continuously or never reaching the set temperature.
- Electrical or Breaker Issues
Heating systems rely on multiple electrical components. A tripped breaker or blown fuse can shut down part or all of the system.
Check:
- HVAC breakers in your electrical panel
- Any recent power outages or surges
- Whether the system hums but doesn’t start
If breakers keep tripping, that’s a sign of a deeper electrical problem that needs professional HVAC repair.
- Ductwork or Airflow Problems
If some rooms feel cold while others are warm, the issue may not be the heater itself.
Possible causes:
- Leaky or disconnected ducts
- Blocked vents
- Poor airflow design
Duct problems are common in older Lubbock homes and can waste energy while leaving parts of the house uncomfortable.
- System Age or Mechanical Failure
Sometimes, the problem is simple: the system is worn out.
Warning signs include:
- Frequent breakdowns
- Loud or unusual noises
- Rising energy bills
- Repairs becoming more frequent
If your furnace or heat pump is 15–20 years old, repairs may no longer be the best long-term solution. A professional evaluation can help determine whether repair or replacement makes more sense.
When to Call for Emergency HVAC Repair in Lubbock
Call a professional HVAC technician right away if:
- Your home has no heat during freezing temperatures
- You smell gas or burning odors
- The system shuts down repeatedly
- The heater runs but never warms the house
Delaying repairs can lead to frozen pipes, higher repair costs, and unnecessary safety risks.
Stay Warm Without Guesswork This Winter
If your heat is unreliable, struggling to keep up, or completely out, waiting rarely makes the problem smaller. Winter nights in Lubbock have a way of exposing weak systems fast.
Call BTAC at 806-203-6131 or use Schedule Service through our secure online portal to book residential HVAC repair at a time that fits your household. Early evening weekdays and Saturday appointments tend to fill quickly once temperatures dip.
A quick, professional diagnosis now can prevent emergency breakdowns later, keeping your home warm, safe, and comfortable through every cold snap West Texas throws your way.
Set the thermostat, pull on a sweater, and relax. BTAC is ready to keep the heat on while winter does its worst.
